Gareth Bale Won't Be Sold from Tottenham, Says Andre Villas-Boas

Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas is confident superstar winger Gareth Bale, who's been the focus of transfer speculation since the end of the campaign, will remain with the club heading into next season, according to Sky Sports.

The report passes along a comment from Villas-Boas to Spanish outlet Marca in which he says Spurs chairman Daniel Levy confirmed Bale's future with the Premier League side.

A number of sides have shown an interest in the 23-year-old, most notably Spanish giants Real Madrid.

But Spurs manager Villas-Boas, speaking to Marca, said: "We have the pledge of the chairman that Bale is not going to leave the club."

Bale is coming off a breakout campaign that helped Tottenham remain in contention for next season's Champions League until the final matchday. While they fell short of that goal, his presence leading the attack helped them secure a Europa League berth.

The 23-year-old Welsh international is one of the most talented young players in Europe. In 33 Premier League matches, he accounted for 21 goals and eight assists, his most productive season to date. He also netted three goals in Europa League play.

So it's no surprise Tottenham are desperate to keep him. Losing a player of his caliber would not only be a major setback for the club in terms of next season's UCL chase, but immediately replacing him would be nearly impossible.

Where will Bale play next season?

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Where will Bale play next season?

Tottenham

67.1%

Real Madrid

28.8%

Another club

4.1%

Total votes: 2,333

Although Spurs sound confident about retaining him throughout the summer, it's always difficult to get a clear read on comments at this point in the year. Clubs are often sending smoke screens in an attempt to bolster their position heading into the summer transfer window.

Tottenham certainly hope Bale stays at White Hart Lane, but if a monster offer comes along and the winger is interested in leaving for Real Madrid or another club, the task becomes very difficult.

It's unlikely the Bale drama is anywhere near over. The comments from Villas-Boas simply add another layer of intrigue to the situation heading into the summer.